It is critical to understand the necessity of medically assisted detoxification from drugs and alcohol under the supervision of a physician. While there are several important reasons for medically assisted detox, the primary reason is due to the literal potential of death which can occur from the immediate cessation of particular drugs. There are two drugs specifically which are so physically addictive that stopping them can cause seizures and in turn death. If we, or someone we love, has an addiction to alcohol and/or benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonipin, Ativan, etc.) specifically, it is imperative that a physician be involved in the detox process. Physical addiction to alcohol and benzo’s require a sometimes lengthy tapering process whereby the individual is given less and less of the drug every day until they are weaned off completely. We have seen the effects of attempts to detoxify non-medically in recent years when famous celebrities have tried this and lost their lives in the process. These tragedies should serve as a blaring warning signal that detoxification is not to be taken lightly, nor should it ever be attempted without medical supervision.
There is also another valuable reason to ensure detoxification is done using medications that provide comfort to the addict in this process. It’s value not only comes in the form of ensuring the suffering addicts physical health, but medical detox gives the individual the freedom to persevere through detoxification without abruptly returning back to their drug of choice. As anyone who has detoxed understands, this is arguably one of the most difficult and painful experiences one should have to ensure. The physical anguish combined with the mental and emotional suffering that accompanies the detox process is often times unbearable, and that is with the addiction of medically assisted detoxification. It is not only unwise and naïve to believe that addicts can survive this process without aid, it is dangerous because without the aid of medicinal intervention, we can almost guarantee that the individual will turn back to drugs and alcohol in order to avoid having to suffer the brutality of withdrawal. Finally, non-medical approaches to detoxification are simply inhumane, and the notion that the addict ought to experience this level of suffering is an idea that could only be contrived by a serious lack of understanding and misdirected frustration. The road to recovery is paved with determination, patience, honesty, and forthrightness, but the first step is paved through the process of a supervised and medical detoxification plan.
Tree House Recovery of Portland, Oregon is a men’s addiction treatment center that teaches our clients how to roll with life’s punches and use the tools they’ve learned throughout the treatment process to stay on top of anything life throws at them. Call (503) 850-2474 to see how we can help you today.
